Are special advisers shadowy figures shaping government policy from the sidelines, or simply an essential yet overlooked part of the political machine? Often described as everything from Rasputin-like influencers to a quirky mix of outsiders, their true role remains widely misunderstood.

In The Secret Life of Special Advisers, Peter Cardwell—who served as a special adviser to four Cabinet ministers—pulls back the curtain on the reality of life inside Westminster. Acting as media strategist, political fixer, crisis manager, and even occasional style consultant, Cardwell shares candid, often humorous insights from his time in government. From managing national security briefings in Cobra to fielding awkward questions from ministers, his account reveals the demands, quirks, and unexpected moments that define the role.

Packed with practical reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this compelling book offers a rare glimpse into the world of special advisers—essential reading for anyone curious about the real workings of government.